EXPERIENCE
Celebrate Italian Heritage Month
Featuring Chalk Art, Wine, Food, Music & More
In October 2024, Bella Vita Fest returns to Little Italy for the 2nd annual celebration of Italian Heritage in San Diego’s beautiful Little Italy neighborhood. More than 35 professional chalk artists will create masterpieces before your eyes at this annual festival that brings live chalk art, Italian wine & vendors, and live entertainment to the central hub of Little Italy.
Bella Vita Fest invites you to enter the neighborhood and view the artwork, taste Italian wines, shop for Italian products and of course, indulge in delicious Italian food.
A full lineup of musical performances adds to the ambiance and invites you to linger in San Diego’s Little Italy.
Chalk art
The tradition of street painting began in 16th century Italy with itinerant artists, many of whom had been brought into the cities to work on the huge cathedrals. When the work was done, they would often recreate the paintings of the Madonna onto the pavement. They became known as Madonnari.
Street painting thrives today through festivals throughout the world. Street painters prefer this temporary performance art form that is created live before your eyes on the asphalt. Little Italy has not enjoyed a chalk art festival since 2016, and we are thrilled to bring these talented creators back to San Diego.
WINE
Thanks to our partners at Little Italy Market & Spirits, Bella Vita is able to bring 15+ imported Italian wines from many different regions in Italy. Featuring sparkling, whites and reds, there is something for every wine lover at Bella Vita. Wine tasting tickets can be purchased in advance or onsite, with options of 5 tastings or 12 tastings.
LIVE PERFORMANCES
Bella Vita Fest Highlights Italian and Italian-themed music performances from local San Diego talent, from classical opera to instrumental swing bands and beyond!
NEIGHBORHOOD CULTURE
Little Italy, the backdrop for the festival, is like no other district in San Diego. This vibrant neighborhood has a rich history tied to the fishing industry, and was once home to more than 6,000 Italian families. Still honoring its Italian-American heritage, Little Italy is now home to art galleries, San Diego’s top dining destinations, and charmingly unique public spaces that invite you to come, linger, and enjoy. Our thanks go out to the Little Italy Association of San Diego for many years of support.
